“Inspiration can stem from so many different places” explains Juliet Falchi, Director of Global Product Innovation for Mac Cosmetic. As an art history major, Juliet was encouraged to stay in touch with what’s trending in the world of art, design, and technology. Given that she works in the beauty industry currently, staying in touch with the competitive landscape and beauty trends is absolutely crucial.
While working at La Mer, Juliet did exploratory research for a lifting and firming serum by attending a 3D printing fair. “[We] spoke to people there and came up with this whole new angle of how to talk about shapeshifting,” she exclaims. “Some of the best ideas come from things that are completely unrelated to exactly what you’re working on.”
Out of the box thinking can play a key role in branding and growth. Strategizing new ways to tackle the same market can become mundane if you are brainstorming in the same environment. Getting out of your office and finding inspiration on the streets, at the movies, in museums, events, moreover through other brands–within and outside your market–can really pay off.
It also pays off to have a mentor. Mentorship can contribute to the creation process in ways you never thought possible, as it offers the opportunity to connect with someone who has a diverse perspective and can give constructive feedback. Juliet suggests that a mentor “doesn’t necessarily have to be your direct boss or someone you currently work with.” Working with people from different departments can offer a mutually beneficial relationship where collaboration becomes more unique due to your different backgrounds. Unparalleled ideas will flourish organically.
Juliet’s mentor, Jennifer Balbier, is Senior Vice President in Product Development and Artistry Brands. According to Juliet, Jennifer is “well-known in our company as being someone who really loves to take on young talent and foster them.” It’s important to shop around to make sure whoever ends up being your mentor is in it for the long haul; they should want to help you succeed.
Furthermore, it’s never too late to find a mentor. If you are looking to expand your horizons and take your career up a notch, start reaching out to former employers or other people in your network at different companies. Find people that are willing to keep the door open for you (and help you open doors). It can make all the difference in your career.
